Getting that recommended five servings of fruits and veggies each day can be a challenge, whether you like the taste of veggies or not. But for folks that fall into the “not” category (or cook for someone who does), it can be especially hard. Here are a few easy ways to pack more veggies (read: nutrients) into any meal — without compromising the flavor or texture of your favorite foods.
- Cauliflower. Steam and puree it for an easy add-in for mashed potatoes, or chicken or tuna salad.
- Avocados. (Shush! We know it’s not technically a vegetable, but they aren’t sweet, so we’re counting them.) Mashed or pureed, avocados are a surprisingly simple way to make pudding, smoothies, or Hollandaise sauce healthier.
- Squash. Whether it’s zucchini or summer squash, these sneaky vegetables can be grated up and added to almost any casserole out there.
- Carrots. Get that beta carotene by grating carrots and adding to tomato sauce, meatloaf, or burgers.
Read on for even more easy tips — for the veggie lovers and haters alike.
The Takeaway: Whether you’re 5 or 55, eating enough vegetables can be a struggle. Try adding more of ’em into the foods you already love without sacrificing flavor.
Cut Out the Pasta
What’s pasta casserole without the pasta? Delicious, actually. Try this recipe, which uses spaghetti squash instead of grain-based noodles.
Fun Fact
A berry known as the “miracle berry” doesn’t taste like much on its own, but it can actually make sour foods (like vinegar or lemons) taste sweet on the tongue.
